Conflicts among Teaching and Non-Teaching Staff and its Influence on their Work Performance in Public Secondary Schools in Arusha

Nguku Stanley
Academic Master;Good Will Secondary School,
P.O Box 1331 – Arusha.
Email: ngukustanley7@gmail.com

Dr. Christine Mnjokava
Lecturer; St. Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), Arusha.
P.O. Box 12385 – Arusha, Tanzania.
Email: cmnjokava@yahoo.com

Abstract: This study investigated the conflicts among teaching and non-teaching staff and its influence on their work performance in public secondary schools in Arusha District. The objectives were to; identify the causes of conflict among teaching and non-teaching staff in public secondary schools and to find out the intervening measures on conflict among teaching and non-teaching staff in public secondary school in Arusha District. The study was guided by Conflict Theory. Concurrent triangulation research design and mixed methods approach were adopted. Sample size consisted of 169 where 110 teaching staff, 50 non-teaching staff, 5 school heads and 4 Ward Education Officers.Respondents were obtained through simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Data collection was done through questionnaires, and interview schedule. Validity was established through expert judgment whereas reliability was determined using test-retest technique. Reliability index, r = 0. 75, was obtained using Cronbach Alpha Method. Credibility of qualitative data was ascertained through multiple analysts, whereas dependability was established through reporting of research process. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze quantitative data in the SPSS version 20 and results were presented in tables, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The results show that poor communication, discrimination, limited resources, intimate relationship, difference in opinions, overlapping responsibility and bad working environment are the main causes of conflict among teaching and non-teaching staff. The study recommended mediation, regular meetings, collaboration, seminar and workshops as measures to address conflicts among teaching and non-teaching staff in public secondary schools.